The Real Life Origins of "Downton Abbey"

Julian Fellowes, who created the hit series Downton Abbey, reveals that his family's experiences inspired the series, and some of the most powerful scenes in the show. Part One's concluding scene, in which the family and its friends hear the news that Great Britain is going to war, comes from Mr. Fellowes' father's own memories of entrance into World War I. In addition, he is passionate about gender equality, which is a theme of the series. He notes that his wife, who is a niece of the current Earl Kitchener, cannot inherit his title. Mr. Fellowes mentioned in a recent interview that he finds this situation "ridiculous" and "outrageous".